Synonyms for

While

Verb / waɪl / / hwaɪl / Another word for while — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a period of time

Synonyms & similar words

patch piece spell during whilst as when until meanwhile simultaneously concurrently alongside amidst among with beside

Synonyms by register

Formal

whereas altho notwithstanding

Informal

but though yet

Literary

ere whilst

Antonyms

simultaneously concurrently meanwhile during throughout

Common collocations

  • for a while
  • all the while
  • at the same while
  • in the mean while
  • mean while
  • while away
  • while it lasts

Word family

verb while
adverb whilst

Usage note

The word 'while' can function as a conjunction, adverb, or noun. As a conjunction, it often indicates contrast or simultaneous action. 'Whilst' is a more archaic or formal variant, primarily used in British English.

Example sentences

  1. While I was playing outside, it started to rain.
  2. She read a book while waiting for her turn.
  3. We sang while walking to the park.
  4. While I was cooking dinner, the phone rang.
  5. He listened to music while doing his homework.

Quotes

  • Life is like a camera. Focus on the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don't work out, take another shot while you still have film.
  • I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination while taking advantage of the wind.
  • Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person, while taking responsibility.

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